33 Home Decorating Tips for 2025

By Interior Designer TRACY SVENDEN | Published March 26, 2025 |

Home Decorating Tips: This curated guide covers reimagining your space and creating an inviting, layered home that transcends time. Here, I’ll lay out the secrets of top interior designers, focusing on intentional style that feels lived-in and endlessly classic. I’ll also include a few of my own tried and true methods of achieving a beautifully designed home with stunning images I’ve collected over the years.

Great design is all about balance. Whether you lean toward subtle or bold, there is an art in incorporating color, pattern, texture, cohesive palettes, and natural elements. Discover how to layer bold and muted hues, mix prints for visual interest, and layer rich textures to create a truly high-end look.

From warm earth tone palettes to thoughtfully crafted heirloom pieces, this guide features homes with a harmonious blend of modern rustic charm, refined elegance, and the celebration of the raw beauty of nature while cherishing the timeless grace of tradition.

The seven fundamental elements of interior design—space, line, form, light, color, texture, and pattern—work in concert to create harmonious and visually engaging environments. These elements significantly guide decisions regarding layout, furniture selection, lighting design, and other crucial aspects of a space. Achieving a balanced interplay between these elements is essential for successful interior design. Feature image courtesy of Eric Olsen Design.

Interior Decorating Ideas
Image courtesy of Lexi Westergard Design

1. The Power of Color

The introduction of color is a powerful tool in interior design as it influences emotion, unifies furnishings and finishes, highlights the aesthetic, and sets the tone. When incorporating color into your own home, consider the psychological impact that resonates through the passion of red, the calming nature of neutrals, the tranquility of soft greens, and the energy of deep and dark hues.

Color possesses the transformative power to elevate a space into a work of art. From striking painted walls to nuanced tonal layering and thoughtfully repeated patterns, color is instrumental in crafting depth and infusing character into a room.

The Power of Color in Design
Image courtesy of Lexi Westergard Design

2. A Calming Palette

Soothing pallets and relaxed interiors create a true sense of home. In a well-designed space created by Amber Interiors, a neutral color scheme is accentuated with warm earth tones, elevating this modern farmhouse living room into a retreat that offers comfort, security, and a place to recharge. These calming hues and thoughtfully layered elements foster relaxation and restoration.

A Neutral & Calming Palette
Image courtesy of Amber Lewis Interior Design

3. The Art of Layering

The curated furnishings, such as layered textiles, luxurious rugs, sumptuous throw pillows, and warm textures, make a house a home. In a Spanish-style home designed by Lexi Westergard, thoughtful modern updates like warm oak flooring and curated light fixtures add an inviting blend of timeless style and personality. Timeless furnishings, layered textures, and curated accessories grace this warm and inviting modern rustic space that celebrates its roots while feeling fresh and elevated.

The Art of Layering
Image courtesy of Lexi Westergard Design

4. Feel the Texture

Texture is a fundamental element in interior design, going beyond visual appeal to engage our sense of touch. It enriches a space by adding depth, warmth, and dynamic movement. Moreover, it can influence the perceived weight of objects, alter a room’s sense of scale, and establish a feeling of balance.

From the softness of boucle to woven area rugs, decorative pillows, and textured walls, every detail in the space contributes to the overall texture. These thoughtful textural contrasts elevate a space, making it feel inviting and visually engaging.

Layering Textures
Image courtesy of Eric Olsen Design

5. Positive & Negative Space

Space in interior design refers to the area surrounding and between furniture, divided into positive and negative space. Positive space encompasses objects, like beds, sofas, and chairs, while negative space is the empty area between them, including walkways.

Open areas create a feeling of spaciousness and prevent clutter. Striking a balance between positive and negative space is vital. Too little negative space can make a room feel cramped and cluttered, while too much can leave it feeling bare and unfinished.

Positive & Negative Space
Image courtesy of Lindye Galloway Design

6. The Importance of Form

Form in interior design refers to the various shapes found within a room, encompassing furniture, artwork, and accessories. These shapes range from geometric forms defined by lines and angles to flowing, curved pieces and even irregular, abstract shapes.

Geometric forms, such as cubes, spheres, pyramids, and cylinders, introduce a sense of order and symmetry. These shapes are evident in furniture like tables and chairs and in decorative elements such as vases and sculptures.

7. Lines

Lines are a fundamental interior design element, categorized as horizontal, vertical, or angular. They can also strategically direct the viewer’s gaze, guiding the eye through the space. In a lovely modern farmhouse seating area designed by Amber Interiors, lines create movement and visual interest while adding warm texture and color.

The Use of Lines in Design
Image courtesy of Amber Interiors

8. Space for Styling

Whether it’s open shelving, built-in cabinetry, or upper cabinets with reeded glass, it’s important to designate specific spaces in all the rooms in the home that are for styling. Purposely creating these areas provides the opportunity to add personality and character.

I have incorporated open shelving in almost every room of my home, from the powder room to the home office, living room, bedrooms, and dining area. Over the years, I have collected beautiful sculptural vases that add color, texture, verticality, and movement. It’s the easiest way to add personality, warmth, and a designer touch to each space. In a stunning modern farmhouse kitchen designed by Lindye Galloway, a combination of open and closed shelving is the perfect place to display dishware, artwork, vases, candles, and greenery.

Space for Styling
Image courtesy of Lindye Galloway Design

 9. Mastering Symmetry

Symmetry alights with creating a space that feels both polished and inviting. It conveys a sense of intentionality and attention to detail, elevating the overall design. Symmetrical arrangements can effectively highlight architectural features or key design elements, while creating a strong visual impact. In the modern rustic living room below, a symmetrical seating area and a large expanse of windows create balance around a fireplace that acts as the focal point of the room.

Symmetry in Design
Image courtesy of Edward Martin Tiles

10. Architectural Elements

Architectural details can instantly elevate the look of a home. These design details add interest to the space, from peaked ceilings to moldings, baseboards, beams, lighting coves, built-in shelves, and cabinetry. Architectural details are just a small part of a new or remodeling project, but they can define and characterize the whole design. In the gorgeous modern farmhouse bedroom below, interior designer Eric Olson incorporated a light wood peaked ceiling with beams that add a warm and inviting touch.  

Architectural Details
Image courtesy of Eric Olsen Design

11. Play With Pattern

Pattern is a key element in many interior design styles, injecting energy, movement, and personality into a room. While combining multiple patterns can be challenging, the results are often striking. Successful pattern mixing, whether pairing stripes with florals or layering delicate prints with bold designs, can be achieved through curtains, throw pillows, rugs, and other decorative elements.

This demonstrates the limitless potential of patterns to elevate a home’s design. Today, a wide range of patterns are also available in wood flooring, veining in natural stone, wallpaper, and ceramic tiles.

Playing with Patterns
Image courtesy of Amber Lewis Design

12. One With Nature

Incorporating natural elements into interior design creates a warm, inviting, and thoughtfully curated space. This can be achieved through organic color palettes, raw materials, and softly sculpted forms. Designs that balance rustic textures with refined details, such as boucle chairs and handcrafted wooden accents, effectively bring the outdoors in.

A blend of natural materials like wood, stone, linen, jute, and rattan enriches interiors with depth and authenticity, fostering a sense of grounding and connection to the outdoors. Organic, asymmetrical forms inspired by elements like branches, rocks, flowers, and leaves introduce a soft, flowing quality to a space. Wood, stone, and living plants can integrate these natural forms.

Incorporating Natural Elements
Image courtesy of Jeremiah Brent

13. The Power of Vintage

For those with an unwavering love for old-world charm and all things vintage, this sustainable choice offers timeless character, a sense of permanence, and warmth. Incorporating vintage furniture, decor, and materials provides more than just a nostalgic touch; it’s a conscious choice for lasting quality, a counterpoint to fleeting, disposable trends.

These well-crafted, classic pieces cultivate authenticity and depth within a space. From antique furniture and aged textures to traditional patterns, they lend richness and ensure a thoughtfully curated, enduring design. Vintage elements serve as a bridge between old-world charm and modern sensibilities, resulting in a style that is both sustainable and timeless.

Decorating With Vintage Elements
Image courtesy of Blanc Marine

14. The Curated Coffee Table

From coffee tables to consoles, create thoughtfully designed vignettes with every surface. A thoughtfully arranged coffee table can truly unify a room, yet the initial styling process can feel daunting.

The sheer variety of coffee table shapes and sizes and the endless possibilities for arrangement present a unique challenge in achieving the perfect balance. However, the key to successful coffee table styling lies in establishing a theme, which can even be an intentionally eclectic mix of items.

Styling a Coffee Table
Image courtesy of Stephanie Ervin

15. Introducing Eclectic Elements

Eclectic decorating celebrates individuality by blending diverse styles, eras, and elements into a uniquely personal space. Rather than conforming to a single design aesthetic, it encourages the fusion of pieces from various periods and cultures, resulting in a visually dynamic and engaging environment.

Eclectic decor allows for deep personalization. By incorporating items of sentimental value, reflecting hobbies, or showcasing personal interests, you infuse your home with your own character. This creates an aesthetically pleasing space and a sense of comfort, familiarity, and authentic self-expression.

Spanish Colonial Living Room With Eclectic Elements
Image courtesy of Maria Khouri Haidamus Interiors

16. Hanging Artwork

Displaying artwork throughout your home adds beauty, polish, and a personal touch to each space. In the entryway, framed pieces offer a warm welcome, revealing your unique style and the personalities of those who live there.

In larger rooms such as a living or dining room, artwork on expansive walls creates a sense of unity and visual interest. Even small frames tucked into corners or placed on styled shelves contribute to a thoughtfully curated and inviting aesthetic.

Artwork in Interior Design
Image courtesy of Lexi Westergard Design

17. A Cozy Fireplace

Fireplaces instantly add architectural interest, warmth, and a focal point to the room while creating a welcoming aesthetic. With so many design options available, they also provide the ability to add personal style, color, texture, and character to the space. In the modern rustic living room below, a gray stone fireplace provides a stunning focal point while enhancing the color palette.

Gray Stone Fireplace
Image courtesy of Edward Martin Tiles

18. Area Rugs

A beautiful area rug adds real personality and softness to a space. Area rugs anchor the furniture in the room and add warmth, comfort, color, pattern, and texture.

Rugs effectively unify distinct areas within a home. Using rugs with a common design or color theme creates a sense of cohesion and flow between separate spaces, resulting in a more harmonious overall design.

Using Area Rugs
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

19. Guest-Ready Bedrooms

Creating a welcoming guest bedroom involves carefully layering elements for beauty, comfort, and practicality. Begin with breathable, high-quality bedding, combining soft sheets with a cozy duvet and textured quilts for added warmth and flexibility. Offer a selection of pillows with varying firmness to accommodate individual preferences, and enhance the room’s character with charming decorative accents.

Choose furniture for multiple purposes, such as an ottoman for luggage or a spacious bedside table. Ensure guests feel at ease by providing essential amenities like fresh towels, toiletries, and readily available water. Include thoughtful personal touches, such as a small vase of flowers, a favorite book, or a soft, ambient lamp.

Well-Designed Guest Room
Image courtesy of Lauren Nelson

20. Well-Styled Cabinets

The design of a room comes to life with thoughtful styling: a vase of flowers on a coffee table, a curated stack of books on a shelf, or a striking piece of vintage pottery. Similarly, a statement cabinet feels incomplete until it’s artfully arranged with sculptural objects, greenery, or meaningful artwork.

Remember that achieving the perfect arrangement often requires experimentation when styling your own spaces. Don’t hesitate to play with different combinations, step back, observe the results over a few days, and adjust as needed.

Even after finding a successful arrangement, it’s perfectly acceptable to refresh it periodically. Think of your styled cabinet as a personal art gallery that reflects your evolving taste and experiences.

Styling Cabinetry
Image courtesy of Brittany Hakimfar Design

22. Warm Earth Tones

Interior designers frequently favor earth tones—warm browns, rustic oranges, and deep greens—for their ability to foster a sense of grounding and connection to nature. Bringing these hues into your home decor can strengthen your relationship with the environment. By surrounding yourself with natural colors and textures, you cultivate a sense of harmony and balance, a welcome antidote to our fast-paced, technology-saturated lives.

Warm Earth Tones in a Bathroom
Image courtesy of Allison Lind Design

23. Style With Branches

While fresh flowers infuse a space with vibrancy and vitality, branches, whether living or dried, offer distinct architectural structure and verticality to a room or display. A large-scale branch arrangement on a table or mantel creates a relaxed yet visually captivating focal point.

Their minimalist aesthetic, devoid of dense foliage or blooms, creates a chic and sophisticated presentation. A practical advantage of using branches is their longevity compared to flowers, making them a cost-effective choice. You can source them from your surroundings, such as your backyard or neighborhood walks, or purchase them from a local florist.

Dining Room With Branches
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

24. Wood Accents

Wood is a natural element that instantly brings warmth, charm, and character to a home. Whether you lean towards light or dark wood, it’s the perfect way to infuse a space with additional texture, warm earth tones, and softness.

Incorporating Wood Accents
Image courtesy of Allison Lind Design

25. Layered Lighting

A well-designed lighting plan integrates both natural and artificial light sources. While we can’t control the sunlight entering through windows, we can manage its intensity and quality with drapery and window coverings.

Strategically placed mirrors can also amplify natural light by reflecting it throughout the space. Artificial lighting, comprising ambient, task, and accent lighting, should be layered to create a comprehensive and adaptable illumination scheme.

Layering Lighting
Image courtesy of Blanc Marine

26. Shades of Green

There’s no other color that brings the outdoors in like green does. Green, symbolizing life, vitality, renewal, and growth, is an ideal color to incorporate into your home as the days lengthen and temperatures rise. Green adds instant warmth, whether you choose a sumptuous green velvet sofa, incorporate green pottery and artwork, or decorate with plants and florals.

Green Window Treatments in the Bedroom
Image courtesy of Marie Flanigan Design

27. Cohesion Through Color

A home should have a harmonious and cohesive flow, seamlessly transitioning from one room to another. To accomplish this, employ a consistent palette of tones, which allows for the integration of diverse styles while preserving the distinct personality of each individual space.

Cohesive Color Palette
Image courtesy of Amber Interiors

28. Window Treatments

Window treatments instantly elevate a space, adding refined detail, elegance, and a finished look. Choose sheer curtains to allow natural light to flood the space or create a strong visual impact with pattern, texture, and color. In the two rooms below, design firm West of Main incorporated light linen curtains that contrast beautifully with the surrounding warm tones.

Window Treatments
Image courtesy of West of Main Design

29. Accent Walls

Accent walls are a powerful design tool capable of transforming a space by establishing a captivating focal point, enhancing visual interest, and defining room boundaries. Their impact can be tailored to the room’s needs; they can make a small space feel larger or create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in a vast room. Using a striking material like handmade grasscloth, a dramatic mural, a stone feature wall, or simply a bold color can significantly elevate a room’s aesthetic.

Stone Accent Wall
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

30. One-of-a-Kind Details

One-of-a-kind details make your home look professionally designed, from well-worn antique furniture with stories attached to it to personal objects, collectibles, and family heirlooms that share a personal point of view. One-of-a-kind details can be as simple as a strong preference for a certain hue or as complex as how someone has integrated a collection of one thing or many collections into their living space.

Home Decorating Ideas
Image courtesy of Silverado Greens

31. Seasonal Renewal

Investing in exquisite linens, from elegant tablecloths to luxurious bed linens, transforms your home into an oasis of comfort and beauty. Each carefully selected piece imparts a timeless elegance, enhancing the ambiance and your everyday experience.

A beautifully crafted tablecloth elevates an ordinary meal into a special occasion, while premium bed linens create a tranquil sanctuary for rest and relaxation. Welcome the freshness of the season by incorporating airy, natural fabrics like linen and cotton, allowing gentle breezes to flow through your spaces.

A simple way to embrace seasonal change is with a tablecloth in soft pastels, floral patterns, or classic gingham. Whether creating a sophisticated tablescape for guests or adding a touch of seasonal charm, a thoughtfully chosen textile can instantly revitalize your space.

Seasonal Decorating
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

32. Enhance the Ceiling

Treating your ceilings as a design canvas can dramatically elevate a space, transforming its ambiance and creating the illusion of greater height. Natural wood beams introduce an organic touch, perfectly complementing a rustic modern style, while coffered ceilings infuse a room with grandeur and sophistication. These architectural details add an impactful visual element and should be considered when designing any space.

Ceiling Treatments
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

33. Coffered Ceilings

Coffered ceilings lend a timeless elegance to any room. Consider adding them to spaces like the dining room, where they create a refined atmosphere perfect for intimate gatherings. This classic architectural feature elevates a room’s sophistication and visual interest, resulting in an inviting and polished space.

Coffered Ceilings
Image courtesy of Studio McGee

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